2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, despite its minivan label, offered a practical solution for families needing efficient transportation. While it didn't boast the rugged appeal of an SUV, it provided the convenience of sliding side doors, making it easier to manage in tight parking spaces. The Pacifica Hybrid stood out as a unique option, being the only plug-in hybrid minivan available, with a price starting at $49,095 for the base model. The interior, though comfortable with premium leather, felt somewhat dated compared to more modern designs. Chrysler didn't attempt to disguise the Pacifica's minivan identity, which might have been a drawback for those seeking a more stylish vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 maintained its reputation as a stylish and high-quality compact crossover SUV. Despite its smaller back seat and cargo area, the CX-5 exuded a sense of luxury, with high-quality materials and a sophisticated design. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Mazda's decision to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50 was part of a broader marketing strategy, but the CX-5 remained a strong contender in its segment, offering a refined and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured a plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a dual-motor electric drive system, delivering a total output of 260 horsepower. The electric drive system provided immediate torque, allowing the Pacifica to feel adequately powered even when fully loaded. It could travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes and errands. The regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, contributing to an average fuel economy of 37.1 mpg during testing. However, the driving experience was described as dull, with light steering and unremarkable regenerative brakes.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and a turbocharged version delivering up to 256 horsepower with premium fuel. The turbocharged engine provided a satisfying driving experience, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm on regular gas. The CX-5's structural and suspension updates improved its driving dynamics, making it feel more solid and reducing body roll. The CX-5 excelled on winding roads, offering a firm and connected ride. However, the turbocharged engine's fuel economy fell short of expectations during testing, achieving 21.4 mpg in combined driving.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid excelled in comfort and utility, offering three comfortable rows of seats and ample cargo space. It featured triple-zone automatic climate control, quality leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row seats were more comfortable than the standard Pacifica's Stow n' Go seats, though they required removal to maximize cargo space. The Pacifica Hybrid provided 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with the third row folded. Removing the second-row seats increased cargo capacity to 140.5 cubic feet.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, while offering improved front seat comfort, fell short in terms of interior space. The CX-5's cabin was smaller compared to its competitors, with limited rear-seat room and cargo space. It provided 30.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. Despite its compact size, the CX-5 featured high-quality materials and a luxurious feel, especially in the Signature trim with Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came equipped with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display with appealing graphics and a user-friendly interface. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The available FamCam overhead camera system allowed parents to monitor rear-seat passengers. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the Harman Kardon sound system required adjustments for optimal sound quality.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, while visually appealing, was a source of frustration. It lacked a helpful voice recognition system, and the physical controls on the center console were awkward to use. The system required memorization and focus, making it distracting to operate while driving. Despite these drawbacks, Mazda Connect offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system in upper trims.

The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-keeping assist. However, the adaptive cruise control system required refinement, as it was slow to resume speed and braked too hard in certain situations. The Pacifica earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, offering a range of driver assistance technologies under the i-Activsense banner. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim added a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, it lacked a warning system for driving without headlights at night, a common issue among CX-5 drivers.